Things To Do
in Az Zaqāzīq

A bustling market selling fruits, vegetables, spices, tea, and everyday staples; ideal for sampling fresh produce and street snacks like falafel and ful.

Streets near Zagazig University are lined with affordable eateries, koshari joints and cafes geared toward students — great for cheap meals and lively atmosphere.

Use polite greetings: As-salamu alaykum (peace be upon you) is common; shake hands with the same gender unless the other person declines. Show respect to elders and hosts.

Dress modestly in public—especially in conservative neighborhoods and religious sites. Women often cover shoulders and knees; consider a light scarf for visiting mosques.

Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women; avoid photographing military, police or sensitive government sites.

Accept offered tea or food as a sign of hospitality; use the right hand for eating or handing items. Public displays of affection are generally avoided.

Tipping is customary but modest: round up small bills for cafe and street service, 5–10% in simple restaurants (10–15% in more formal places). Give small tips to porters, drivers and guides for good service.

Cash (Egyptian pound, EGP) is king for markets, street food and small shops. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger restaurants and some hotels; ATMs are available but carry enough cash for market shopping. Mobile payments are limited outside larger cities.

Hot and dry from June to September; temperatures often rise above 30–35°C (86–95°F). Midday is harsh—plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and carry sun protection and water.

September to November brings milder temperatures and comfortable evenings; a pleasant time for city walks and nearby coastal trips, with lower humidity after summer.

December to February is mild and cooler (10–20°C / 50–68°F) with occasional rainy days; layering is recommended for early mornings and evenings.

March to May is pleasant and green, with flowering fields and agricultural activity; pollen can increase allergies, and temperatures warm toward late spring.

Lowland trails and reedbeds around the Burullus lagoon offer flat, easy walks for birdwatching and nature photography; best in cooler months.

Sandy stretches and coastal dunes near Ras El-Bar allow for gentle hikes and seaside exploration; combine with swimming or seafood visits.

A desert area west of the Delta with salt lakes and monastic history — suitable for short desert walks and cultural visits; best taken as a guided day trip.

If you plan a day trip toward Cairo, Wadi Degla Protectorate offers more rugged trails and rockier terrain for hiking and scrambling (approx 1.5–2 hours from Zagazig).

The primary international gateway for Zagazig, roughly 80–120 km to the southwest (about 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic). Regular domestic and international flights; best option for most travelers.

Located near Alexandria, around 180–220 km northwest of Zagazig (3–4 hours by car). Occasionally useful for travelers combining visits to Alexandria and the Delta.

Long-established agricultural families and communities that work surrounding farmland and irrigation networks.

Zagazig University brings a sizable student population, creating a youthful presence in cafes, shops and cultural activities.

Small business owners, merchants and civil servants who form the commercial and administrative core of the city.

A visible religious minority with churches and community institutions present alongside the majority Muslim population.